Fr. Alvin M. Cabacang, OSM (1966-2017)

Watch a recording of the Memorial Mass at The Grotto, February 9, 2017.

Father Alvin M. Cabacang, a solemn professed friar and priest of the Order of Friar Servants of Mary (the Servites), passed away suddenly on Tuesday, January 31, 2017. He was a member of the Servite Community at The Grotto Monastery of Our Sorrowful Mother in Portland, Oregon, where he had lived and worked for the last five years. Father was 50 years of age, a friar for 18 years and a priest for 12 years.

Father Alvin was born in Catbalogan, Samar (Diocese of Borongan), in the Philippines, on December 27, 1966, the son of José and Fé (Balmes) Cabacang. After completing university studies in psychology and several years of work in the public service sector, he entered the Servite Order in Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila, where he made his novitiate and professed first vows on May 16, 2000. He completed his theology studies at the Pontifical Theological Faculty “Marianum”, Rome, Italy and professed solemn vows on December 27, 2003. He was ordained to the priesthood on October 10, 2004.

In addition to pursuing an advanced degree in Liturgy, Father Alvin also served in parishes, formation houses and as vicarial secretary of the St. Peregrine Servite Vicariate in the Philippines. In July 2012 he was assigned to ministry at the National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, “The Grotto”, in Portland, Oregon, where he continued to serve until his untimely death. Father Alvin’s outgoing, joyful and friendly manner left a deep impression on many visitors and friends who came to The Grotto from all over the world. He also worked closely and lovingly with the Filipino and Asian Catholic communities in the Portland area.

A Memorial Mass was celebrated for Father Alvin on Thursday, February 9, 2017 in the Chapel of Mary, at The Grotto.

Gifts in memory of Fr. Alvin Cabacang, O.S.M., may benefit either The Grotto, or the Philippine Vicariate of the Servite Order. Please make all checks out to The Grotto, but indicate in the lower left portion of the check the beneficiary of the donation gift. Mail all donations to: The Grotto, PO Box 20008, Portland, OR, 97294, Attn: Fr. Richard Boyle, O.S.M.

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